Wake leaders discuss $680M school bond proposal
RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) -- Wake County and Wake County Public School System leaders met Wednesday to discuss a proposed school bond referendum that would provide more than $680 million for school projects if approved by voters in November.
District officials said the funding would primarily support infrastructure needs, including construction of new schools and repairs to existing facilities. The district said the bond proposal would help fund at least three new schools, including one on Poole Road in Knightdale.
The referendum also would fund improvements to existing buildings, including upgrades to heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems.
Parent Madana Marshall said she supports the measure.
"Let's give the schools what they need to make sure our children learn," Marshall said. "I'm definitely for it. I'm definitely for anything that generates the funds to ensure our children have a comfortable space to learn."
If approved, the measure would result in a tax increase of half a penny for most county residents, according to the district.
Supporters of the proposal say the investments would address long-standing facility needs across the school system.
"Historically, bond referendums have passed in Wake County because voters here care about education and per voter, it's a huge return on investment," said Anna Grant, president of Wake NCAE.
Facility improvements remain a priority for many parents and educators.
"I definitely think it needs to go to facilities. I've seen in my daughter's school the need for HVAC improvements," Marshall said.
Grant pointed to building maintenance issues that can affect students' learning environments.
"If the pipes burst and you have to go to the other side of the building to use the bathroom, if you are trying to concentrate and learn in a classroom, that's over 85 degrees," Grant said.
In addition to the bond proposal, county and school leaders discussed the possibility of exchanging school district-owned land for affordable housing. County officials said potential redevelopment sites have been identified, but any such proposal remains in the early stages.
In a statement, officials said: "If the Board of Commissioners and Board of Education support moving forward, several steps would be required before any properties could be declared surplus or included in a land swap. Not all identified properties may ultimately be included."
District officials also said some bond funding could be used for technology upgrades. Some parents said they would like to see part of the funding used to hire more teachers.
Voters will decide the bond referendum in November.
